10 Newcastle Centre-Backs Chancel Mbemba Should Look To Emulate

9. Andy O'Brien

O'Brien was signed from Bradford City for around £1 million in 2001 after the departure of Alain Goma to Fulham. While not spectacular (which may say more about the calibre of Newcastle United centre-backs than O'Brien himself), the Irishman was at least fully committed to the cause, unlike the Frenchman he replaced. With a heart the size of his rather large nose, what he lacked in technical finesse and ability, he made up for in pure graft. After a season where too many of the squad were questioned for their work ethic, a man with O'Brien's character certainly would have been useful. With 26 caps for the Repulic of Ireland and having established himself as Jonathan Woodgate's preferred partner under Sir Bobby Robson, the Irishman was a serviceable addition to the side and complimented the ex-Leeds man well. Newcastle fans must be hoping that Jamaal Lascelles and now Chancel Mbemba can bring a strong work ethic into the side, settling in quickly and establishing a partnership that doesn't leak like a sieve.